HOSEA CHEUNG, QMI Agency

VANCOUVER - The sight of Geroy Simon observing the B.C. Lions practice Tuesday instead of participating in it would normally be a cause for concern amongst local football fans.

But the hobbling veteran slotback had nothing but good news when addressing the media, assuring he “plans on playing” this Saturday.

Considering the Lions are preparing for an important rematch with the Montreal Alouettes — this time at home following a 30-25 defeat in Quebec over the weekend — they’ll need their leading receiver and most experienced player in the offence.

Simon left last Friday’s game in the second quarter after suffering a left hamstring injury. Upon returning home he decided not to rush getting back onto the field just yet, instead choosing to work out in the gym Tuesday.

“I’m going to try doing some stuff (Wednesday) and gradually do more and more and come out here and test it,” he said. “You can’t over do it because you can really pull it and then, instead of being out a week or a couple days, you can be out a bunch of weeks or until the end of the season. It’s something you got to be smart with and just play it by ear.”

The last time he missed any CFL action was in 2008, when a hamstring injury — albeit much worse than his current one — kept him out two games. He’s not exactly sure what the diagnosis is this time around.

“I just know it hurt and I couldn’t run as fast as I needed to,” said the 36-year-old, who has yet to pull in a touchdown this season. “They basically pulled me out of the game. I’m not used to missing games. It was a tough one.”

Elimimian watch

With TSN reporting that Solomon Elimimian landed in Vancouver on Monday night, the hard-hitting linebacker won’t be Lions property until Sept. 13.

After being released from the Cleveland Browns practice roster Monday, Elimimian has 10 more days to try and find another spot on a different NFL team before his rights revert back to the CFL. The Lions have been in contact with his agent, according to coach Mike Benevides, but the team will make the decision when the time comes.

“That’s been one of those things where he’s got a lot of friends in that locker room, they’re aware of it,” Benevides said. “They’re there for him, but they also understand the focus is on the Montreal game, so it’ll take care of itself in due time.”

Last season, the 25-year-old Elimimian, the CFL’s outstanding rookie in 2010, had 98 tackles, four sacks and two interceptions for the Grey Cup-winning squad.